A Billings tattoo shop owner was sentenced to 15 years and eight months in federal prison and five years supervised release Tuesday for meth dealing.
Charles Eugene Venditti, 42, was convicted by jury in August of five counts in federal court, including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and three counts of distribution, according to U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme.
Prosecutors said at trial that a confidential informant made three monitored buys from Venditti, including two from his tattoo business at 145 Grand Ave. and one in his vehicle. Each purchase was for an ounce of meth for $800.
Law enforcement then searched Venditti's residence and found drug paraphernalia and a small amount of meth. A search was also conducted at the business.
Chief U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
